Citizen Science Programs

Watching birds is more popular than ever! Tens of thousands of Canadians share their energy, skill, and bird observations through Bird Studies Canada's bird surveys. These "Citizen Scientists" provide a tremendous service by volunteering their time to track the health of bird populations.

Research and Conservation

Using data from our targeted research initiatives and Citizen Science programs, and in collaboration with conservation partners, our scientists monitor bird population trends, investigate declines, and recommend actions to protect the health of ecosystems we all depend on.

Help Us Conserve Canada’s Birds

You can play an important role in conserving Canada's wild birds! Bird Studies Canada supporters provide charitable donations as well as making
valuable Citizen Science contributions. Our nationwide programs are focused on the highest-priority conservation needs for birds.

Volunteer Programs

Whether you are a burgeoning naturalist or an experienced birdwatcher, there are a number of
programs that you can join, whereever you are in Canada. These programs are coordinated by Bird Studies Canada or one of its many partners.
To find a program, browse the list below, or narrow your search by region, time of year or difficulty level (easy = no or little experience required,
intermediate = some experience required with the species targeted by the program, advanced = must be able to recognized most birds by sight and sound).

Participants volunteer at one of a series of migration monitoring stations established across Canada to gain hands on training in bird banding and censusing techniques.
Effort required per year: > 50 hrs

Participants volunteer at one of a series of migration monitoring stations established across Canada to gain hands on training in bird banding and censusing techniques.
Effort required per year: > 50 hrs

Participants volunteer at one of a series of migration monitoring stations established across Canada to gain hands on training in bird banding and censusing techniques.
Effort required per year: > 50 hrs

This free, North America-wide event takes place over four days every February, and anyone can take part. Participants create a real-time snapshot of where birds are across the continent.
Effort required per year: Flexible

The Birdathon challenge is to identify as many bird species as possible in a 24-hour period, anytime in May. Participants are sponsored, raising money for bird research and conservation.
Effort required per year: 10-50 hrs